Multiple sclerosis in coastal Karnataka.

Over the last 10 years from 1982-1992, we have diagnosed 29 cases of multiple sclerosis at our centre. In this hospital based retrospective study, 22 cases were definite (including 4 cases of Neuromyelitis optica) and the remaining 7 were probable cases of multiple sclerosis according to Poser's criteria (Poser et al 1983). There was no sex preponderence. Striking clinical presentations included high incidence of optic nerve, brain stem and spinal cord involvement. Sympathetic disturbance in the form of Horner's syndrome was seen in two patients. Major depressive psychosis was an associated disease in 2 cases. One patient developed multiple sclerosis after receiving anti rabies vaccine.